Full Pelvic Ultrasound Scan

A full pelvic ultrasound is a scan that looks at your reproductive organs and the surrounding pelvic area. At The Birth Company we can use it to examine your uterus, womb lining, ovaries and cervix. During the scan we can look for any abnormal appearances that may account for any specific symptoms you’ve been experiencing.

What are the indications or reasons for having a full pelvic ultrasound?

We may perform a full pelvic ultrasound scan:

as part of your well woman screening

to investigate gynaecological symptoms such as pelvic pain, irregular periods or other menstrual problems

to confirm the diagnosis if we suspect you have a condition such as fibroids or ovarian cysts

to check on your condition if you have been diagnosed with a problem such as fibroids or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that requires monitoring

to assess your fertility or assist your doctors if you are undergoing fertility treatment at another clinic

How is the scan done?

We can recommend the right kind of pelvic ultrasound for you, depending on your reasons for having the scan and any underlying health issues.

You will usually need a trans-vaginal scan, which means that a specially designed ultrasound probe will be inserted through your vagina.

We can sometimes perform an abdominal scan instead, by placing the probe against your tummy, but it doesn’t provide as much reliable information.

What preparation is required?

For a trans-vaginal ultrasound:

You should empty your bladder just before your scan

You can have a trans-vaginal scan when you’re having your period, but you will need to remove the tampon if you’re using one

You’ll need to remove the lower half of your clothing before the scan, so wear something that is easy to take off

For an abdominal ultrasound:

You should drink some water about an hour before the appointment and try not to empty your bladder until after the scan

We recommend that you wear clothes that can easily be pulled back to expose your abdomen

What can this scan detect?

During a full pelvic ultrasound scan, our sonographer will examine the shape and condition of your whole reproductive system. We will measure the uterus, ovaries and cervix and check them for abnormalities such as cysts or growths. We will also look for any issues in the surrounding pelvic area.

If you are having a full pelvic ultrasound scan to diagnose or assess gynaecological problems, we will be able to check for:

Ovarian cysts or polycystic ovaries

Fibroids

Polyps or other growths

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Endometriosis

If you are having the scan as part of fertility assessment or treatment, we can check:

How healthy your uterus and ovaries are before you try to conceive

When you will be ovulating, to help with the timing of natural or assisted conception

The health and thickness of the endometrial lining, which can be particularly important for fertility treatment

We can also use the full pelvic ultrasound scan to:

Detect and locate an IUCD or coil if you have one implanted

Assess the effect of HRT after the menopause

Is it easy to make an appointment?

Making an appointment at The Birth Company for a full pelvic ultrasound scan is simple. We should be able to arrange an appointment at a convenient time for you. Short notice appointments are usually available if you are experiencing symptoms and you need your scan results quickly. If you would prefer to see one of our female sonographers, let us know when you make the appointment.

What happens after the scan?

You will be able to talk to the sonographer about your results after the full pelvic ultrasound scan. We will provide a full report on your results that you will be able to share with your GP or other doctors. The report and images can be sent electronically immediately to you and your referrer.

Read Our Reviews

Thank you to all our patients for considering coming to our clinic.
We aim to meet the highest standards.

' Professional and reassuring '
The sonographer was ready as soon as I arrived, and she was extremely calming, personable and professional. The scan and blood test where efficient without feeling rushed and all very easy. These appointments can feel uneasy and make you feel anxious but I felt reassured and in professional hands the whole time

Helen Campbell

I saw Kate throughout my first pregnancy and am now doing so again with my second. She is absolutely amazing, she explains everything really clearly, and has answered all sorts of bizarre questions and worries I have had. On top of being clinically excellent she is also just the loveliest person and always a pleasure to see.

Sarah Elliott

We had the harmony test with the Birth Company and had a reassurance scan with sonographer Kirsty McGarry who was absolutely lovely and really put our minds at rest. We had been scared by our NHS dating scan and left feeling like there was something wrong. We explained the situation and was treated very professionally and with good care. Also speedy appointments also as I had phone in the morning and got an appointment by afternoon. So thankful.

Ashley and Tom

Really friendly, efficient service. Great experience overall. Had the Panorama. My appointment was with Kate who was absolutely fantastic. The results came really quickly. Have a comparison with private healthcare elsewhere and must say that The Birth Company was just how I would like to be treated when I pay for medical services - attentively, calmly, friendly, in a pleasant environment that doesn't look like hospital. Top marks!

Anna

' Efficient, friendly and always on hand to provide last minute appointments '
The Birth Company has been excellent, providing timely scans and blood tests during my IVF treatment abroad. Staff are always friendly and extremely efficient. I would highly recommend coming here.

Hannah Murphy

' Professional and friendly '
When I first contacted the Birth Company I spoke to Danielle. She was fantastic. She went above & beyond to put me at easy & make the journey from Kent as stress free as possible. Every staff member that myself and my husband have come into contact with have been approachable, professional and friendly. Kate scanned me the first time and put me completely at easy. Lisa on reception is professional and very approachable. Highly recommended

Lyndsey Dilla

' Highly recommended '
Donald was so lovely! I was so nervous as I have a bad history and he was super quick and confirmed my baby's heartbeat as quickly as he could. He spent time showing me the baby and the anatomy and it was the best money I have ever spent! The reception girls were lovely too - considering they deal with babies day in day out they were super excited for me! Thank you so much one and all! If only I lived in London and could have all my scans with you!